Peppermint Sugar Cookies: 7 Festive Bites of Joy

Oh my goodness, if there’s one cookie that screams “holiday cheer,” it’s definitely peppermint sugar cookies! I mean, what’s not to love about these little bites of joy? They’re soft, chewy, and bursting with that delightful minty flavor that makes your taste buds do a happy dance.

Every time I bake a batch, my home fills with the most enchanting aroma that instantly transports me to cozy winter nights spent with family and friends.

These cookies are a holiday staple in my house, and I think they’ll become a favorite in yours too! It’s the perfect treat to share during gatherings or to leave out for Santa (wink, wink). Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why I can’t resist making them every year!

Ingredients for Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Alright, let’s gather everything we need to create these delightful peppermint sugar cookies! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of our cookies, giving them that perfect texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps our cookies rise and get that nice, fluffy bite.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s at room temperature so it creams beautifully with the sugar!
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that lovely chewy texture.
• 1 egg: This binds everything together and gives our cookies that rich flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor that complements the peppermint perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: This is where the magic happens! It gives our cookies that minty kick.
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies: These add a lovely crunch and holiday flair. You can use candy canes for an extra festive touch!

With these ingredients, you’re all set to bake some amazing cookies that will fill your home with the essence of the holidays. Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Now that we’ve got all our ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the fun part—baking these scrumptious peppermint sugar cookies! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful batch in no time.

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because we want our cookies to bake evenly and come out perfectly soft and chewy. While that’s heating up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial because it ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps our cookies rise just right. Plus, it only takes a minute! Set this bowl aside for now.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, it’s time to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together. I usually use an electric mixer for this part, but you can totally do it by hand if you’re feeling strong! Beat them together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Trust me, the fluffier, the better! This is the secret to that lovely texture we want in our cookies.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Next up, we’re adding the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to our butter-sugar mixture. Mix it all together until everything is well combined and smooth. This is where that wonderful minty aroma starts to fill the air! Just don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure every bit of deliciousness gets mixed in.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, it’s time to gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. I like to do this in batches, starting with about a third of the flour mixture. Gently mix it in until just combined, and then repeat until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until you see no more flour. This helps keep our cookies soft and tender!

Add Crushed Peppermint Candies

Finally, fold in those gorgeous crushed peppermint candies. I usually use a spatula for this, gently mixing them into the dough so they’re evenly distributed. This is the moment when you really see the holiday magic come to life! The candy pieces will add a delightful crunch and a pop of color to our cookies.

Form and Bake the Cookies

Now, drop spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each one because they’ll spread a bit while baking. I like to use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes, but a tablespoon works just fine too! Bake them in your preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden. The centers might look a little soft, but that’s perfect because they’ll continue to set as they cool!

Cooling Process

Once they’re out of the oven, let your cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up a bit and makes them easier to move. And oh boy, try to resist the temptation to eat them all while they’re still warm—though I totally understand if you can’t help yourself!

Tips for Success

Alright, cookie lovers, let’s talk about some pro tips to ensure your peppermint sugar cookies turn out absolutely perfect every time! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your baking game.

• Measure Flour Correctly: This is super important! Use the spoon-and-level method—spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Too much flour can make your cookies dry and crumbly, and we definitely don’t want that!
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before you start. This helps everything mix together smoothly and creates that lovely fluffy texture we crave.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them soft and chewy!
• Chill the Dough (if needed): If your dough seems too soft or sticky, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking and makes them even more delicious!
• Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your cookies! They should be just set and lightly golden around the edges. If you bake them too long, they can become hard instead of chewy.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to sprinkle a little extra crushed peppermint on top of your cookies before baking for that extra festive touch. It’s a fun way to make them even more special!
• Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them—just make sure to let them cool completely first!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be whipping up the best peppermint sugar cookies ever! Just remember to have fun and enjoy the process. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s break down the numbers for these delightful peppermint sugar cookies! Each cookie is not only a festive treat but also has some nutritional value. Here’s what you can expect:

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 10g
• Protein: 1g

These cookies are definitely a sweet treat, but they also bring a bit of joy to your holiday festivities. Just remember, moderation is key, especially when they taste this good! Enjoy each cookie, knowing you’re indulging in something delicious and festive!

FAQ About Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Got questions about making these delightful peppermint sugar cookies? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my best answers. Let’s dive in!

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While I prefer using unsalted butter for that rich flavor, you can use margarine if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind it might alter the taste and texture a bit, but they’ll still be delicious!

What can I use if I don’t have peppermint extract?

No peppermint extract? No problem! You can substitute it with an extra splash of vanilla extract for a different but still tasty cookie. Or, if you have other mint flavorings, those can work too!

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and the centers might look a little soft. They’ll firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem underbaked when you first take them out!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze it until solid, then transfer the cookie dough balls to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the baking time!

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store your peppermint sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend one with a good texture, so your cookies still turn out soft and chewy. Make sure to check the blend for xanthan gum since that helps with the structure!

What’s the secret to making chewy cookies?

The secret lies in the creaming process and not overmixing! Cream the butter and sugar well to incorporate air, and be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients. This helps keep your cookies tender and chewy!

I hope these answers help you as you bake your peppermint sugar cookies! If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out. Happy baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: You can whip up a batch in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings.
• Festive flavor: The delightful combination of peppermint and vanilla gives these cookies that quintessential holiday taste.
• Sharing joy: These cookies are a hit with friends and family, spreading cheer whether you’re gifting them or serving them at parties.
• Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even beginner bakers can create these delicious treats.
• Customizable: Feel free to add extra crushed peppermint or even drizzle chocolate on top for an extra special touch.
• Perfect for any occasion: While they shine during the holidays, these cookies are delightful year-round, making any day feel festive.
• Great for kids: They’re fun to make together, and kids love the crunch of the peppermint candies mixed in!

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